Suspected terrorist group spotted in Sokoto State

A suspected terrorist group carrying sophisticated weapons is currently in control of Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, applying ‘strange laws’ and punishing defaulters. Tangaza Local Government borders Niger Republic and the border communities of the two countries inter-marry and are identical and speak the same dialect.

According to reports, members of the group believed to be from Niger Republic are in possession of assorted weapons, preaching Islamic teachings, forcefully collecting alms (zakat) and flogging defaulters.

As reported by an eye witness, members of the terror group are yet to be identified by name and have been in the area for more than two months. They are allegedly recruiting youths in a nearby bush and give the recruits a motorcycle after training. 

The witness, who pleaded anonymity, said members of the group are more than 200. He said they looked strange, spoke Arabic and wore turbans over their heads.

“They imposed compulsory levies on each household with cows and rams. Those with cows are paying N500 and those with ram are paying N200. They are arresting and fining herdsmen who encroach on farmlands and are keeping the money. They are operating freely, scaring residents, without being challenged. They are going from one community to another,” the witness said.